Gannon University’s Fashion for Success

Posted: November 26, 2013

Most people go to fashion shows to see the clothes they should
be wearing in the coming season. But for a group of Gannon
University students on the day before Halloween, a fashion show
presented costumes that never should be worn--not to a job
interview, at least.

It was the Fall Professionalism Fashion Show sponsored by the
Student Pennsylvania State Education Association chapter at
Gannon's School of Education. With a "dress for success" theme, the
presentation showcased various job-seeking fashion don'ts. Call it
the premiere of the not-ready-to-wear collection.

In a twist, students modeled the appropriate fashions while
faculty members donned sweatpants, hoodies and fleecy boots to
illustrate inappropriate wardrobe choices for the working
teacher.

For sophomore early childhood/special education major Leah
Roscoe, it was an eye-opening experience. "Seeing [the faculty
models] reinforces how teachers are held to higher standards. We're
representatives of Gannon University and of the teaching
profession, and dressing is part of that."

Erie retailers Clothes Mentor and Marshalls generously loaned
clothing and accessories from their name brand designers for
students to model. Fairview Elementary School Principal Ben Horn
spoke to students about how to be a professional in the workplace
and gave important tips and information about interviewing.

At the end of the show, a makeover basket with more than $150
from Marshalls, Panache Salon and by the "Makeover Monday " segment
aired by Erie television stations JET 24 and FOX 66, was raffled
off to help one lucky student get a jump start on her professional
wardrobe-a fashion do.